A new initiative aimed at increasing the presence of locally made medical technologies in healthcare services has been announced with the formation of the Australian Medtech Manufacturing Alliance (AMMA).
The Alliance, spearheaded by the BioMelbourne Network, builds on the foundation of the Australian Medtech Manufacturing Centre and will pilot its efforts in Victoria.
The AMMA brings together several key industry partners, including AusBiotech, MTPConnect, AMTIL (Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited), and ICN Victoria (Industry Capability Network), with seed funding support from the Victorian Government.
Focus on advocacy and local procurement
The Alliance aims to address procurement barriers that currently limit the uptake of Australian-made medical technologies within the domestic healthcare system.
Karen Parr, CEO of BioMelbourne Network, highlighted the importance of the initiative in creating sustainable local opportunities.
“Australia is home to world-class medtech innovators and manufacturers. Increasing awareness of these companies and growing local content in health will support Australian health services to continue to deliver world-leading care and strengthen our country’s sovereign capabilities,” Parr said.
“The Victorian pilot aims to demonstrate the potential of this ambitious and important solutions-focused Alliance and serve as a stepping stone for advancing the national agenda.”
Call for industry support
The AMMA is inviting Victorian medtech companies currently manufacturing or developing products for local or international markets to join the Alliance.
Contract manufacturing firms are also encouraged to participate. While peak industry bodies involved in the initiative offer formal memberships, the AMMA has clarified that becoming an Alliance supporter is not contingent on membership.
The Alliance aims to work closely with these peak bodies to build on existing industry efforts, helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) grow both locally and internationally.
New uplift program in development
The AMMA is also co-developing a capability uplift program to help medtech manufacturers identify and secure opportunities within the domestic health system.
The initiative aims to address this gap by creating clearer pathways into the health sector, mirroring practices in other international markets.
The AMMA said establishing strong domestic customers will serve as crucial proof points for Australian products and attract further investment in medical innovation.
The Alliance’s efforts aim to unlock opportunities within the healthcare sector to ensure Australian patients benefit from locally made technologies.
Companies interested in joining the Alliance or participating in the capability uplift program can express their interest directly through the AMMA.
